Surgical Technologist Training

Surgical technologists typically need a postsecondary certificate or
associate’s degree. Certification also can help a surgical technologist find
a position. A small number of states regulate surgical technologists.

People interested in surgical technology should take high school courses in
health, biology, chemistry, and mathematics.

Surgical technologists typically need some type of postsecondary
education. Accredited programs in surgical technology are in many community
colleges and vocational schools. Programs range in length from several
months to two years, and they grant a certificate or associate’s degree.
Admission typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

Surgical technology education includes courses in anatomy, biology,
medical terminology, and other topics. Students also work in supervised
clinical settings to gain hands-on skills as technologists. In addition,
technologists are trained in the care and safety of patients, sterilization
techniques, and preventing and controlling infections.